In response to recent stampedes during philanthropic activities in parts of the country, the Lagos State Government has mandated that individuals and organisations planning to distribute items to large gatherings during the festive season must obtain approval from the Lagos State Safety Commission.
The directive comes in the wake of multiple tragic incidents. On Wednesday, at least 35 children lost their lives, and six others sustained severe injuries in a crowd crush at a school fair in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Similarly, on Saturday, an unconfirmed number of people died in a stampede during a rice distribution event in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State.
Additionally, at least 10 people died at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, during another distribution effort.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, in a statement, emphasized the government’s concerns over these tragic occurrences.
He urged individuals and groups to register their events and obtain clearance through the Lagos State Safety Commission’s platform to ensure proper crowd management and safety.
“The Lagos State Government has observed with serious concern the stampede during philanthropic gestures of individuals and organisations in some parts of the country.
“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu sympathises with families whose loved ones were involved in the stampede that led to the loss of lives in some states.
“To prevent such occurrences in Lagos State, all individuals or groups that intend to distribute items to large gatherings of people are advised to seek clearance from the Lagos State Safety Commission, which is well-equipped to ensure that such events do not turn tragic.
“The agency has a partnership with security agencies to ensure crowd control at locations with large numbers of people,” Omotoso stated.
He also warned of strict legal consequences for non-compliance with the directive.
“Any group that flouts these measures will surely face the legal consequences of its indiscretion.
“The Government has activated all its safety mechanisms, following a directive from Mr Governor who has also summoned a meeting of all safety agencies.
“Besides, Mr. Governor has directed that the ongoing advocacy against fire and flooding, among others, should be strengthened,” Omotoso added.